Fatigue is very common in pregnancy especially during the first 12 weeks. This is because of the hormonal changes that take place in your body as your body begins to gradually adjust to pregnancy. The best way to help is to rest as much as possible. Make sure you put your feet up when you feel tired and accept lots of help from family and friends. Feeling tired may make you feel run down especially as your bump begins to grow and you find it more uncomfortable to sleep. Make sure to look after your physical and mental health by doing more acts of self care, eat a healthy diet and get plenty of rest.
Nausea and sickness during pregnancy is usually referred to as morning sickness but this is a common misconception as it can occur any time during the day. Morning sickness is particularly unpleasant and can impact your day to day life. It usually clears by week 16-20 although some women experience it during their whole pregnancy.
Some women deal with severe pregnancy sickness called ‘hyperemesis gravidarum’. This can be serious and cause women to become dehydrated which means you may need specialist treatment at hospital. If you are worried, speak to your midwife or GP.
Unfortunately, there is no miracle treatment and every woman's body reacts in different ways. There is a few things to try at home:
- Avoid foods or smells that make you sick
- Eat something like dry toast or crackers before you get out if bed
- Eat small frequent meals
- Eat meals that are high in carbohydrates and low in fat
- Sip on water as little and often as you can
- Eat or drink foods that include ginger